Do we often feel that same way - overworked and under-appreciated. How do we handle situations like this? Silently? Vocally? Angrily? Self-Pity? Brooding? Fuming? Whining? I don't know about you, but I have this mastered! I don't usually ASK for help . . . but I also wonder why no one is helping - don't they see all the work that has to be done - don't they see how much quicker it would go if everyone pitched in - wouldn't it be more FAIR? And then I definitely go into my head thinking no one really appreciates all I do.
As Joanna points out - our Savior knows our human weaknesses YET HE LOVES US ANYWAY!!! Like Martha, we are to take all our troubles to Jesus - lay them at His feet - ask for His guidance / assistance BUT know that He will always give us what we NEED, which may not necessarily be what we ASKED for.
The Youngest Son demands "his share", takes off to live as he chooses, he wants out of his father's control. This would have been the highest insult to the father in that culture - he would have been treated as if he was dead to the father and the family. But then, he comes to his senses after experiencing a famine decides he will return home to his father - he has a speech all ready - he will ask his father to allow him to work as one of his servants. (Notice how famine always follows squandering).
The Father sees him off in the distance. He doesn't wait for his son to reach him so that he can chastise him. He runs to him (can you see a more beautiful picture in your mind - this very elderly father running to his son) and restores him. We learned that the "best robe" conveyed distinction, the signet "ring" suggests authority, the sandals indicate sonship (slaves didn't wear sandals) and the "feast" signifies special honor.
The Oldest Son is not too happy about this reunion between his wayward brother and his father. After all, he's been slaving all these years - never disobeying his father, always being faithful. He's always lived with the father but never had a relationship with him. Our Father tells us "Everything I have is yours" (Luke 15:31)
Have you been wandering? Have you returned home? Are you building a relationship with the Lord? He is there - waiting for you - waiting to wrap His arms around you - to put the ring on your finger and the sandals on your feet. Don't delay!!!
- Week 2 "Make A Plan" - follow through with your plan
- Read Chapter 3 in your book
- Answer Week 3 study questions in your workbook
- Spend daily time with the Lord enhancing your relationship with Him
- Be blessed as you bless others